Positive March 2012 by Hargrave Design

March 2012

about integrated healthcare

Let’s Talk Wellbeing

l-r: Paul Jenkins, Chief Executive at Rethink, Dr Maureen Tomeny, Clinical Partnership Director, Let’s Talk – Wellbeing, Dr Marcus Bicknell, NHS Nottingham City, IAPT Executive Lead, Mike Cooke, Simon Smith, Executive Director of Local Services at Nottinghamshire Healthcare

Nottingham City service officially launched see page 4

CD offers hope art on display dignity day be clear on cancer involvement chp scoops award

MESSAGE

FROM THE BOARD As we move from the last quarter of 2011/12 and into a new financial year, operational teams across all Divisions of the Trust have been outlining their future plans for service delivery. Integrated business plans outline service aims and objectives and how these can be achieved reflecting areas of strength and weakness, sustainability, finance, risks and governance. These plans are formed with the QIPP agenda in mind – ensuring the themes of Quality, Innovation, Productivity and Prevention are at the heart of what we do. How do we consolidate what we do well, improve and move forward, and mitigate any risks along the way? Plans must also reflect and incorporate the Trust’s core values, so that we continue to be nationally important, locally relevant and personally valued. It is important that everyone who has contact with the Trust has an opportunity to comment on our plans. Therefore, we have been consulting publicly on how you think we should shape and deliver services in the future; your feedback is instrumental in this process. Moving forward in what continues to be an unsteady climate both within the NHS and the wider political and financial landscape, we remain in a strong position. However, we must not be complacent and must continue to deliver a strengthened performance in both service delivery and financial management. We must ensure that our services are safe, supportive and effective and most importantly, result in the best outcomes for all those who use them.

Ruth Hawkins, Executive Director, Finance and Performance 2

CD offers hope and inspiration A new CD brings together tracks that have given Trust service users hope and inspiration when they needed it. Tessa Rodgers, Peer Support Worker – City Services, explains how it came about: “I found music so beneficial in my own recovery that I often talk about it in my role as a peer support worker. When I first started working on Ward A43 at the QMC I found that chatting to people about what music they liked was a real ice breaker and a way of connecting with the whole person as music choices are so personal. I could see that someone’s whole demeanour and expression changed as they talked about artists and

tracks that were meaningful were chosen that inspired hope. These tracks were to them. incorporated and blended into a CD entitled Songs of “During Mental Health hope and inspiration and it Awareness Week in 2010 we made a huge banner on is the most eclectic mix you could imagine! the ward with collage and paint with a theme of hope “The cover and inserts of and moving forward. One the CD are artwork created of the things we included by service users at QMC was lyrics from favourite songs and this gave me the and it is so beautiful and idea of somehow compiling inspiring. For me as a peer support worker it has been a collection of people’s so fulfilling to see an idea favourite tracks. come to fruition. “To take this further for “The tracks and CD 2011 we organised production were done by several sessions at QMC with very helpful the Send Project and they have given the finished and enthusiastic product its professional input from Rachel presentation, making it a Halldorsson (OT) and beautiful object as well as a the Occupational Therapy team. We got tuneful one.” people talking and The CD will be now used thinking about the in various therapy settings music they enjoyed throughout the Trust. and particular tracks

Clinical Leadership Programme Colleagues in Band 7 clinical roles have been invited to apply for places on a new clinical leadership programme. The programme is aimed at nursing and allied health professional colleagues who want to influence and improve services. It will be delivered in five daylong sessions over five months between March and July 2012. Six areas of development are included and the programme will focus on putting quality, patient and service user experience first, with a unique opportunity for networking across all

three clinical Divisions of the Trust. It has been identified as a development opportunity by the Executive Leadership Team with the full support of Mike Harris, Simon Smith and Paul Smeeton, the executive directors of the three Divisions. The six areas of development are: • Networking across the organisation • Organisational values and what it means to be part of an organisation that is nationally important, locally relevant and personally valued • Energy and inspiration for a clinical group that has a pivotal role of influence in the organisation • Action, delivery and impact of how to lead well and by example • Strengths and identification of personal development needs of the Band 7 population of the Trust For more information contact Rachel Parkinson on 07557 457882 or email rachel.parkinson@nottshc.nhs.uk.

Executive Mentees, Chief Executive Mike Cooke and members of the LGBT Forum came together on 1 February to raise the Rainbow Flag at Duncan Macmillan House in celebration of LGBT History Month.

Let’s talk about creative approaches Last month, staff across the Trust attended a showcase of the ‘Let’s Talk About It’ project. Let’s Talk About It is an interactive package developed in partnership with the Trust, The Institute of Mental Health and Samanya Theatre Company and aims to support the emotional health and wellbeing of young people in schools. The package involves a mental health based theatre performance, follow-up sessions and lesson plans for schools. Information for students about where to find help and support if they are experiencing difficulties with their mental health is also included.

gives people the space they need to talk about their feelings in an indirect way”, “children are very lucky to have this sort of project and support available to them because it will encourage them to get help early rather than not know who to turn to and let their illness get worse.” The ‘Let’s Talk About It’ package continues to be promoted to schools and following this successful event, staff within the Trust may also consider developing similar approaches within their services. To speak to someone about how this can be developed for your service or for more information, please contact Vicky Baldwin, Education and Practice Consultant, Institute of Mental Health (Vicky.baldwin@nottshc.nhs. uk) or Manya Benenson at Samanya Theatre Company (info@samanya.co.uk). The theatre performance

The showcase event aimed to raise awareness of the project and provide an opportunity for staff to explore the use of creative approaches within their own work areas. Feedback on the day was extremely positive and comments included “using this creative approach

Positive March 2012

Information programme for carers of people with dementia Radford care group is launching a new information programme for carers of people with dementia.

Healthy thinking across Nottingham More than 40 people turned out to mark the official launch of Let’s Talk – Wellbeing Nottingham City – a service which provides vital support to people across Nottingham who are feeling low, anxious or stressed. Colleagues and partners were able to learn more about the service through a series of short presentations and were given tours of the premises. Service leaders were also on hand to answer further questions. The service, provided by the Trust in partnership with Rethink Mental Illness for NHS Nottingham City, offers a range of talking therapies to people across Nottingham City experiencing common difficulties such as anxiety and depression. One in four people will experience some kind of mental health problem in the course of a year. Since the service opened its doors on 1 October 2011, more than 1676 referrals have been received. Trust Chief Executive Mike Cooke said: “Talking therapies are recognised as an effective method of treatment for mild to moderate mental health problems. Let’s

Talk – Wellbeing provides essential support which can also help to improve people’s overall health and wellbeing. The service is already working well across the wider County and in Bassetlaw and I am looking forward to seeing the continuation of this success in the City. “Today provided a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the service since it commenced last year and to raise awareness of the support that is available.” Lee Harrison, Rethink Mental Illness East Midlands Regional Manager, said: “We’re thrilled to be working in partnership with the local NHS to launch such an important service for all those in need of talking therapies in Nottingham.” Anyone feeling low, anxious or stressed is encouraged to speak with their GP who can make a referral to Let’s Talk – Wellbeing. For more information visit www. letstalkwellbeing.co.uk

The initiative is funded by NHS Nottingham City Clinical Commissioning Group and is focused on people who are unpaid carers of friends and family. It aims to: • Improve the wellbeing of both the carer and the person with dementia • Improve understanding of dementia, increase confidence and coping skills of the carer • Provide mutual and emotional support, reduce stress and isolation • Reduce reliance on the GP and crisis intervention • Help maintain the health of the carer and person with dementia • Help carers to stay in control, manage risk and ‘self assess’ • Get their questions answered The programme consists of seven weekly, two hour sessions covering: • Introduction to dementia • Understanding the experience of dementia • Being a carer and looking after yourself • Why and how dementia affects communication and behaviour • Health issues – nutrition, infection control, continence • Welfare benefits, legal and financial information • Care in later stages The groups, facilitated by specialists in dementia group work, will run on Saturday mornings and a weekday morning and evening. Radford Care Group is providing the venue, respite services and help with transport. Attendees are asked to contribute £2.50 per session towards the costs of refreshments. For more information contact info@ radfordcaregroup.org.uk or telephone 0115 9786133.

Trust art on display The Trust’s Arts in Health team present two inspiring exhibitions, Living Narratives and From Negatives to Positive which will be on show at the Nottingham Society of Artists this month. The two exhibitions consist of works created by Trust service users and patients. Living Narratives showcases innovative ways of describing the life stories of men with personality disorders, while From Negatives to Positive is an exhibition of photographs by people who have survived mental health difficulties.

The exhibition will be on show at the Nottingham Society of Artists, St. Luke’s House, 71 Friar Lane, Nottingham from Tuesday 6 March until Sunday 11 March. It will be open from 10am to 4.30pm every day and admission is free.

The Living Narratives works were created by patients on the Peaks Unit at Rampton Hospital. They were encouraged to narrate their life experiences through a blend of multi-media resources and techniques such as art, crafts, woodwork, horticulture, poetry, cookery and digital art and sound files.

The launch event in the Function Room of the building will take place on Tuesday 6 March at 3pm and will be hosted by Mike Harris, Executive Director, Forensic Services. All are welcome to attend.

Photographs in From Negatives to Positive were taken by patients from The Maples, Highbury Hospital, after taking part in a photography course.

For more information contact Penny Coulson, Art Coordinator, on 0115 9691300 ext 11853 or email penelope. coulson@nottshc.nhs.uk.

Lings Bar pilot still delivering A pilot project at Principia-Lings Bar Hospital is continuing to see benefits for both patients and staff.

The enhanced community service pilot involves a community matron working closely with inpatient nursing and therapy staff to identify Lings Bar patients who could safely be discharged. By January, 24 patients had been identified and successfully discharged earlier than would have been expected. The average length of stay for patients at Lings Bar Hospital was previously 36 days but patients in the pilot average just 21 days.

The pilot project is not only good for the Trust; it also benefits patients and carers. Peter Hunt, General Manager (Principia), County Health Partnerships, explains: “The project engages patients at the very early stages of their stay at Lings Bar and encourages them to think about getting well and going home. The Lings Bar staff talk to the community based staff who will take over the care when the patient is discharged. Patients and carers are able to work together with professionals from both the hospital and the community to plan their care so that there is a smooth transition from inpatient care to community care.” The pilot was established in November following the closure of one of the four wards at Lings Bar Hospital and will run until the end of March. Thanks to the hard work of all the staff involved, it is already showing that integrated and proactive working across community and inpatient teams can deliver positive results.

Positive March 2011

Institute launches new training programme Employees of the month with their awards

Facilities announces 2011’s quality winners The annual Facilities Quality Awards gives the Senior Management Team and Trust Board the opportunity to acknowledge outstanding achievements, work commitments, ethics and dedication of Facilities staff. This year’s ceremony took place in January in the Woodbeck Restaurant, Rampton with colleagues from Arnold Lodge, Wathwood and Mansfield Supplies in attendance. The main presentation was by Ruth Hawkins, Executive Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive, alongside Kay Mulcahy, Head of Estates & Facilities, Forensic. Ian Tennant, Deputy Director Forensic Services, also attended. Before the formal Facilities Awards began, Ann Clark, Management Accountant, was presented with an Outstanding Contribution to Service Award for her true commitment to her role and tireless work with all Facilities services throughout the year. Employee of the month awards for the 12 months of 2011 went to: Steve Gascoigne, Hotel Services, Arnold Lodge; Ron Dunk, Housekeeper, Rampton Hospital; David Bell, Hotel Services, Wathwood; Jackie Pells, Housekeeper, Rampton; Stuart Lee, Estates & Capital Projects Officer, Rampton; Cathryn Otter, Purchasing Officer, Rampton; Diane Homer, Hotel Services, Wathwood; Georgina Pollard, Hotel Services, Arnold Lodge; Linda Goodwin, Housekeeper, Rampton; Vincent Keep,

Maintenance Surveyor, Rampton; Teresa Sly, Catering Supervisor, Rampton; Richard Tomlinson, Maintenance Engineer, Rampton. The main quality award winners were: Teresa Sly, Catering Supervisor, Rampton – Leadership Award; Scotia Wakelynn, Driver, Transport Department Rampton – New Member of Staff Award; Vincent Keep, Estates Department, Rampton – Customer Services Award; Joan Willoughby, Housekeeper, Rampton – Lifetime Achievement Award; Chris Dwyer, Senior Buyer, Supplies Mansfield – Innovation, Performance & Creativity Award; Kevin Porter, Fire Officer, Rampton – Education & Learning Award; Lisa Ruff, Chef, Rampton – Unsung Hero Award. Academic achievement awards were presented to: Lezley Walker, Caz Cross-Swain, Liz Beckett, Clint Dexter, Emma Johnson, Kay Mowbray, Lorraine Tunnacliffe, Sarah Turner, Jayne Salmon, Kerrie Hewitt, Alison Robinson, Bobbi Cloves, Will Couch, Diane Fletcher, June Hall, Terri Lilley, Rebecca Kirk, Gaynor Rose, Jackie Crute and Fran Briggs, Yvonne Tomlinson. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees.

The Institute of Mental Health is set to launch a programme of non-accredited, skills based workshops to complement its existing range of accredited education courses. The Teaching Team at the Institute has run non-accredited training (skills based workshops) for a number of years but this new programme will bring together all the learning opportunities in a structured format from April. The workshops will include subjects such as helping people with psychosis, promoting recovery, introduction to talking therapies, coaching and working with groups. They will be of interest to mental health professionals, allied health professionals, social care professionals, peer support organisations and the voluntary sector. Ray Woodcock, an Education Practice Consultant with the Teaching Team, said: “We will be developing a portfolio of non-accredited education and training products designed for the healthcare workforce from nonregistered to registered practitioners. The courses will range from two to five days and will be designed to develop the skills and competencies of attendees. They will be flexible, held at venues to suit the training commissioners, and delivered by professionals who have worked in mental health services for many years as well as ‘experts by experience’ – people who have a lived experience of using mental health services.” To find out more about non-accredited training opportunities from the Institute, email suzanne.howard@nottshc.nhs.uk or call 01777 247 284.

Members of the Mansfield Intermediate Care Team

Dignity Day Staff and patients across the Trust celebrated Dignity Action Day on 1 February. The aim of Dignity Action Day, led by the Dignity in Care Network, is to raise awareness of dignity in care among those working in health and social care and members of the public. Staff at Lings Bar Hospital promote the day every year and ask patients what they would like to do on the day to celebrate. This year, patients on Forest Ward asked Bingo at Lings Bar

for a game of bingo and a glass of wine (non-alcoholic of course!). This was arranged and the day was such a success that the patients have asked for this to be a weekly event. Therefore Wednesdays are now bingo day! At Mansfield Community Hospital, the Intermediate Care team held an open day to raise the awareness around the topic of Dignity. There was an opportunity for staff and patients to complete questionnaires about what dignity means to them and posters, DVDs and ‘take-away’ packs for visitors and patients were available. Visitors on the day came from inpatient wards, therapy departments and the Trust Board. External visitors from care homes were given information packs on how to set up Dignity Champions in their homes.

Left: Patients Beryl Kitchener and Dorothy Januszewski with Staff Nurse Eunice Ofori-Atta and HCA Leslie Ford (Bingo leader) Right: Staff at Gateford Hill in their restaurant serving outfits

Gateford Hill Care home staff engaged their residents in marking the day with a fine dining experience. They transformed one of their suites into a restaurant and dressed all in black and white, served the residents a three course meal. There followed musical entertainment and dancing for the young and old.

Positive March 2012

Anti-Bullying Workshop A successful anti-bullying workshop with the theme ‘Respect’ was held for patients with learning disabilities at Rampton Hospital. The event at the Southwell Centre was organised with as much patient involvement as possible. The design of the logo for the event, deciding on the theme for the day, requesting and securing funding for T-shirts and refreshments were just some of the ways in which the patients were involved. Planning for the day incorporated many disciplines, including the Southwell Core Team, Occupational Therapists, Technical Instructors, Speech and Language Therapists, Chaplaincy, Nurse Specialists and the Directorate Management Team. All patients in the Learning Disability Service were given the opportunity to attend and they requested that Trust Chief Executive Mike Cooke and Ilona Kruppa, Clinical Director, Mental Health & National Learning Disability Directorate were invited to join them. Dave Henry, Equality and Diversity Advisor opened the event followed by a brief introduction led by Alex Morrison, Anti Bullying Lead for the Hospital. A short DVD demonstrating bullying behaviours encouraged discussion around bullying and the need to respect each other. Kevin Shaw from Chaplaincy conducted a

l-r Ilona Kruppa, Clinical Director (MHNLDD), Michael Harris, Nursing Assistant, Southwell, Mike Cooke, Alex Morrison, Samantha Toyn, Therapy Coordinator, Southwell

musical performance demonstrating the need for friendship, accompanied by one of the patients giving an excellent performance on the drums. The event was centred around seven individual stations which were set up and run by different members of the Multi Disciplinary Team. The aim was for the patients to visit all of the stations which had different themes ranging from, ‘what form bullying can take’, ‘how it makes the victim feel’, ‘what to do if you feel you are being bullied’ and ‘what the Hospital and the wider Trust is doing to raise awareness of bullying’. The theme of ‘Respect’ was further promoted by Chaplaincy who

Partnership venture raises aspirations in Ashfield Sure Start Huthwaite and Sutton Children’s Centre, run by County Health Partnerships, and Ashfield Voluntary Action are working together to deliver ‘Changing Futures’ – a new project which aims to raise the aspirations of people across Ashfield in terms of training, job searching and volunteering.

encouraged patients and staff to accept that it is OK to be different. The patients were then encouraged to make a poster with the theme ‘Respect’ or anti-bullying. The best poster was voted for and the winning designer received a prize. The poster will be used to promote the antibullying theme in and around the learning disability wards over the next year. After participating fully in the activities, Mike Cooke closed the event with words of encouragement for staff and patients. He also presented the patient designed T-shirts to all patients who participated and accepted one as a thank you for his attendance and support.

The sessions which take place every Wednesday between 9.30am and 11.30am are free to attend and there is no need to pre-book. The range of services on offer include: advice on job searching, CV and cover letter writing and training and volunteering opportunities. Tracey Bird, Community Development Worker at Sure Start Children’s Centre said: “The aim of the project is to support and advise families and individuals on a range of services that will help them be better equipped to secure job opportunities in the future. The project is being rolled out across Ashfield and is already proving a success. We’re looking forward to developing it further in partnership with Ashfield Voluntary Action.” To find out more information about this service call Sue or Laura on 07565 235735 or visit the Centre on Common Road in Huthwaite, Sutton-in-Ashfield to speak to a member of the team.

Rampton Hospital is celebrating its Centenary this year. The Trust is planning a variety of exciting events throughout 2012 to commemorate 100 years of improving patient care. To mark the start of the celebrations, Dr Mike Harris, Executive Director for Forensic Services raised the new Centenary flag at the front of the visitor entrance at the Hospital. The flag incorporates the Centenary logo, designed by patients at the Creswell Day Unit at the Hospital. Adrian Argent-Cook, Occupational Therapy Manager at the Creswell Unit explained “Patients wanted to create a design which reflected their recovery journey and their future; the gold path signifies their recovery and the flying birds their future. It was a great opportunity for patients to get involved in the Centenary celebrations”.

Celebrating 100 years of improving patient care

Mike said “This is an important milestone for the Trust and the Hospital. It is an achievement that the hospital has managed to survive one hundred years and we are still using some of the original parts of the hospital today. Over the coming months we look forward to sharing some exciting events with patients, staff, carers and the local community to commemorate the centenary year.” Events planned throughout the year include the planting of 100 trees around the Hospital’s estate, which will help towards the Trust’s Sustainability targets. A commemorative flowerbed, a History Day, an old fashioned family sports day in July and a History Exhibition at the Bassetlaw Museum in Retford in September also feature in the line-up. The Hospital will leave a legacy for the future by burying a Time Capsule on 1 October, the official date when Rampton Hospital opened, and will also hold a History Exhibition to mark the occasion. Look out for more information about the centenary celebrations in Positive and on the Trust Intranet and website.

1912 - 2012 100 years of improving patient care

Mike Harris was joined by colleagues at the Hospital as he raised the centenary flag

1912 - 2012 100 years of improving patient care

Positive March 2012

New resources to help support carers New resources have been developed to help Trust colleagues identify and support carers. With over 83,000 unpaid carers in Nottinghamshire alone, one of the Trust’s key commitments is to provide them with support. A new toolkit being piloted in the Community Services Division has been designed to help staff offer this support. It comprises: • A wallet-sized card for carers with information and contact details of key services. • A wallet-sized card for staff giving information and contact details of vital support services for carers, aiding easier signposting and referral. • An assistive signposting guide to be displayed in all clinical areas. • A poster encouraging carers to self identify.

Deb Hall, Carer Coordinator, said: “Carers are a huge resource in the Trust’s care and support system and it is important for every area to encourage and enable families to make positive, informed choices about how they contribute to care. Carers have their own individual aspirations and may need support to live healthy and independent lives and pursue a career, education or social activities.”

The carers’ card was launched on Sunday 12 February at the ‘Check it Out – Healthy Body, Healthy Mind’ campaign running in conjunction with Nottingham Panthers. The Trust employs two carer coordinators to work with partner organisations to ensure continuity of supporting carers and to be a contact point for any questions from staff or carers. The pair regularly visit GP practices and clinical teams to drive home the importance of identifying and supporting unpaid carers. For more information about some of the ways in which the Trust can help support carers, contact Carer Coordinators, Deb Hall on 0115 883 1757, Deborah.hall@ nottshc-chp.nhs.uk or Sue Dyke on 0115 883 1754.

Safeguarding is everybody’s business Rosie Roosevelt, a clinical team leader based at the Queen’s Medical Centre, reflects on a recent secondment in the Local Services Division Safeguarding Team: “Every new experience or situation has challenges and this secondment was an excellent opportunity to learn more about the organisational structure. It also gave me experience of working within a complex divisional wider role, understanding issues from a corporate perspective and being more involved in a wider structure of multiagency working. “I was to cover the domestic violence Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARACs), which involve representatives from a large number of different agencies. I reviewed the case log from the different MARAC administrator

Rosie Roosevelt

divisions of all referrals known to mental health services, attended the MARAC, fed back as appropriate, updated RIO and shadowed the safeguarding lead. This all improved my understanding of the overall workings of the Safeguarding Department. “Safeguarding is everybody’s ‘business’. I am now more aware of my responsibility as a mental health practitioner not only as part of the assessment team but also as an alerter or referrer. There is well documented evidence about the correlation between domestic violence and mental health. Early identification, assessment, treatment and care of those who enter our service is important, as well as confidence in our ability to offer them appropriate tools to empower them in

their decision-making as we work towards prevention and eradication. I would encourage all clinicians to make use of any similar opportunity as it has given me a lot of understanding and experience to bring back to my area. “Special thanks to Zoë Rowe, Safeguarding Lead; Sue Thornton, General Manager, AMH Local Services; Margaret Cheetham, Specialist Practitioner, Domestic Violence; Michelle Persaud, Associate Director of Nursing; Annie Clarke, Ward Manager, AMH; Patrick Crolla, Unit Manager, Cassidy Suite; Anthony Bernard, Community Psychiatric Nurse, EIP; and Sandra Crawford, Deputy Divisional Nurse, Local Services as well as the Safeguarding Team for this incredible learning opportunity.”

VIPs visit locality access point Rampton Hospital scores highly in security audit Rampton Hospital has received an excellent score of 98% in a recent audit by the Prison Service, increasing its rating once again on the previous year. The inspection looked at risk reduction and containment procedures in place in the Hospital. Lee Brammer, Head of Security at the Hospital said: “We are delighted with this result. Good security is paramount in order to ensure the safety of our patients, staff and the public. By working to reduce risk, we can provide a safe, therapeutic environment which enhances the effective care, treatment and recovery of our patients.” Each year an action plan is developed to address areas of improvement and this year the Hospital will look to build on the excellent practice identified by the audit.

A group of VIPs have visited a new locality access point (LAP) in Ashfield to find out more about the services on offer to support local people with drug and alcohol problems. The visitors were Barbara Brady, Consultant in Public Health at NHS Nottinghamshire County, Paul Scarrott, Assistant Chief Constable at Nottinghamshire Police, Councillor John Wilmott, Deputy Leader, and Trevor Watson, Acting Service Director Economy, both from Ashfield District Council. They found out more about each service at the LAP and the integrated approach to care, as well touring the facilities and meeting with staff and service users. The LAP at Ashfield Medical Centre opened in November 2011 to provide quick and easy access to a range of services and links to other community services. It offers a timetable of sessions including therapeutic interventions, GP and nurseled clinics, and support for families and carers. It was set up by the Recovery Partnership, a group of statutory and third sector organisations across the County which is led by the Trust. It includes Framework Housing, Double Impact, Citizens Advice (CAB) and Hetty’s (a support agency for carers). Representatives from the Partnership were on hand during the visit to share information about its work and how it is helping people’s recovery. David Manley, Clinical Director for Specialist Services, said: “The opening of the locality access point in Ashfield has significantly improved access to services for local people with drug and alcohol problems. Through ensuring access to the right care in the right place we are making a real difference to people’s lives and helping to improve outcomes.” The Recovery Partnership has established a network of LAPs across the County. For more information contact Lorraine Bean on 01623 272002. Left to right: David Manley, Clinical Director, Specialist Services, Nottinghamshire Healthcare; Graham Miller, Vice Chair of the Recovery Partnership; Barbara Brady, Consultant in Public Health, NHS Nottinghamshire County; Tristan Poole, Public Health Manager, NHS Nottinghamshire County; Paul Pearson, Recovery Partnership Project Implementation Manager; Paul Scarrott, Assistant Chief Constable, Nottinghamshire Police.

Positive March 2012

New peer support workers come on board Three peer support healthcare assistants have been appointed to join the Trust’s successful Peer Support Worker Service in Nottingham City. The service, which was set up in the City in 2010, provides help and support to people experiencing mental health problems. It is part of the Trust’s ongoing focus on recovery orientated practice. Peer support workers are employees of the Trust who have had personal experience of mental health problems, and are therefore able to inspire hope and offer practical support to service users and carers who are experiencing similar challenges. Daz Ward, one of the three new appointees, said: “The key importance of peer support and my future role is to work with people with mental health issues by using my lived experience, training and knowledge gained to support them on their journey of recovery and develop their hope and aspirations.” The peer support workers help individuals to understand their needs and support them to reach their personal goals, helping with their continuing recovery. The project also enables the peer support workers to enter paid work and can help with their own continuing recovery. Nicole Hunter, Peer Support Coordinator, said: “We’re delighted that we have been able to expand this fantastic and much needed service. The peer support workers have made a real difference to the lives of people using our services. Through the appointment of the additional workers we will be able to offer this valuable support to even more people, contributing to the overall recovery agenda for the Trust.” The new workers completed a competitive interview process before being appointed. They have each completed an accredited training course achieving 20 credits at Level 4 (equivalent to the first year of a degree) and will work with patients on The Willows intensive care unit at Highbury Hospital. The Peer Support Worker Service is also available in the County. For more information about the service please contact Nicole Hunter on 0115 9770000. Daz Ward

Nottingham public get clear on cancer

Two cancer awareness campaigns are running in Nottingham, encouraging people to look out for blood in their pee or blood in their poo. Blood in pee is a common symptom of bladder or kidney cancer, while blood in poo could mean bowel cancer. Until the end of March people in Nottingham will notice advertising on radio, in newspapers and in magazines and will see posters, banners and special events, all developed with the aim of raising awareness about what to look out for. Both campaigns are part of the Department of Health’s national ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ campaign which aims to improve early diagnosis of cancer through raising awareness of symptoms and encouraging people with symptoms to tell nhs.uk/bloodinpee their doctor promptly. If you notice blood in your pee, even if it’s ‘just the once’, tell your doctor straight away. If you notice blood in your poo or looser poo for three weeks or more, tell your doctor. The chances are it’s nothing serious, but all these cancers are more treatable if they are found early. “If kidney or bladder cancer is diagnosed early the one-year survival rate is around 94%,” explains Julie O’Boyle, Specialty Registrar in Public Health, NHS Nottingham City. “If the disease is already at a late stage when it is diagnosed this rate falls to 20-35%. Similarly, many lives could be saved if people were more aware of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer as finding it early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. “It is so important that people tell their GP as soon as they notice symptoms. You’re not wasting anyone’s time by getting your symptoms checked out and, if it’s not serious, your mind will be put at rest.” For further information about the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer, visit www.nhs.uk/bowelcancer. For more about kidney and bladder cancers visit www.nhs.uk/bloodinpee.

• 33,000 new people are affected by bowel cancer each year, making the disease England’s second most common cancer. 13,000 deaths a year are attributed to bowel cancer. • Nine out of ten people diagnosed with bowel cancer are aged over 55. Most people diagnosed with bladder or kidney cancer are over 50. • Blood in urine is a symptom in 80% of bladder cancers and over half of kidney cancers. • There are around 16,000 new cases of kidney and bladder cancer in England every year. Together they cause 7,000 deaths annually. Knowing what to look out for saves lives. • Bladder, kidney and bowel cancers all affect both men and women.

about involvement Trust welcomes five new Governor Members Merita Bryan and Brian Grocock

Update from the Members’ Council The first Members’ Council meeting of the year was held on 31 January at Duncan Macmillan House. The meeting focused on the Trust Quality Plan and featured a workshop led by Dr Peter Miller, Executive Medical Director and a presentation about the NHS Operating Framework by Angela Potter, Director of Business Planning and Marketing. The next meeting of the Members’ Council will be held on 16 April 2012 at Rampton Hospital.

In September of last year members were invited to vote for three new public Governor Members for the Members’ Council: one vacancy to represent the Nottingham City constituency and two vacancies for the Nottinghamshire County constituency.

The successful candidates are: Nottingham City constituency • Julie Jackson, elected until September 2012 Nottinghamshire County constituency • Joanne Dawson, elected until September 2013 • Julie Thorpe, elected until September 2012 Two new partner Governor Members representing Nottingham City Council have joined the Council after their predecessors stood down. The new governors are Councillor Merlita Bryan and Councillor Brian Grocock. The Members’ Council is delighted to welcome the new Governor Members and looks forward to working with them.

Members can represent their views via the Members’ Council and the Governor Member for the constituency in which they live. If you would like to get in touch with a Governor Member please contact the Membership Office on 0800 012 1623. More information about the Members’ Council can be found on the Trust website at www. nottinghamshirehealthcare. nhs.uk/get-involved/themembers-council.

l-r: Joanne Dawson, Julie Thorpe, Julie Jackson

Positive September 2011

Governor Question Time Written by Dane Brennan, Lead Governor One of the many positive things about being a Governor Member is the ability to ask questions directly of Mike Cooke and the Trust Board via the Members’ Council, and more importantly, get honest answers straight back. Governor Members can ask their own questions or can put forward questions from members of the constituencies they represent. At the Members’ Council Meeting in January questions raised issues about night-time confinement at Rampton Hospital, study leave for attendance at international conference, transparency around advertising jobs and activities located in Trust buildings. The answers that were given to these questions and more can be found under the Members’ Council section of the Trust website. Service users, carers, public members, members of staff or partner agencies can contact Governor Members at any time with questions they would like to be asked. Contact Governor Members by email at governors@ nottshc.nhs.uk. Dane Brennan, Lead Governor

Positive Writing Group – join in! The Positive Writing Group (PWG) is inviting new members to join. The group offers a place where writing and recovery go hand-in-hand. Writers of all abilities and experience levels are welcome to share their work and learn how to improve in a friendly and supportive recovery-focused environment. For those who’d like to see their work in print, the PWG can open doors. For creative writers or photographers, the group’s annual compendium is distributed far and wide throughout the Trust. All the group’s members have had poems or photographs published, and both the compendiums have been universally praised for their quality up and down the county. The Trust’s monthly Positive magazine is also eager to run nonfiction articles produced by the group’s members about their involvement with the Trust. Articles could inspire others with an account of a journey towards recovery, or invite readers to attend an event. With expert support available from Mike Wareham, a creative writing teacher, and Noel Oxford, a journalist and editor, group members can learn how to give their work its best possible impact. The group meets at the Nottingham Involvement Centre every second Friday of the month from 1pm to 3pm. Anyone interested in developing a budding talent, expressing themselves with words, or enjoying a relaxed afternoon discussing writing or the arts among friends, is welcome to attend. For more details about Involvement and the work of the centre contact Jane Danforth, Involvement Officer on 0115 9529430 or email jane.danforth@ nottshc.nhs.uk.

Introducing Lynne Corcoran, Staff Governor Member – Allied Health Professionals Among a total of 40 members, the Members’ Council includes seven Staff Governor Members. One of them is Lynne Corcoran: “I have been a Staff Governor Member since our inauguration at the Annual General Meeting in September 2010. During my time as a Governor Member I have attended a range of meetings including two AGMs, a Quality Assurance Meeting with the Medical Director, tea with the Trust Chair and a Foundation Trust Network regional development event for Governor Members.

John Holmes

“The opportunities offered to me as a Governor Member have increased my knowledge and awareness of the range of activities and services offered across the Trust and flagged the important issues that are around. “It has been a privilege to be part of the Members’ Council and to see the Council and its participants grow and develop as a critical friend of the Trust Board. Presentations given by other members have been a powerful insight into other services and the perspectives of others. I feel I contribute a perspective to the Members’ Council which can appreciate the issues from a staff, service user and carer perspective. “As Governor Members we have been encouraged to take on a Governor Ambassador role. I have taken on this role with Offender Health. We have been discussing how we communicate with those we represent and I hope to provide a channel of communication between service users, the Members’ Council and the Trust Board around the issues that are significant for Offender Health. “Hopefully this will provide some insight into the activities we undertake as Governor Members but if you feel there are issues I could be raising on your behalf please contact me at lynne. corcoran@nottshc.nhs.uk or governors@nottshc.nhs.uk.” Lynne Corcoran, Staff Governor Member

Inside the Involvement Centre John Holmes from BBC Nottingham came to visit the Involvement Centre at Duncan Macmillan House in January. John had been invited following the ‘InsideOut’ documentary on Rampton Hospital last year which had created considerable debate in the Centre. On the day, involvement volunteers watched the programme and for some it was a chance to see it for the first time. After this John gave a presentation on his experience of making the programme and there followed a question and answer session. There was discussion on stigma, how the media portrays mental health and the challenges of filming in Rampton Hospital. John said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon and it was most rewarding. The challenging questioning I received after the viewing made me realise that there’s a follow up programme to be made.” It was an interesting afternoon and everybody in the Involvement Centre was grateful to John for giving up his time to take part.

Positive March 2012

Procurement sets out to build partnerships Last month we reported on how close partnership working between Procurement and Podiatry achieved a cost saving of £7,000, thanks to a piece of work led by Jayne Norwood. In a bid to further develop the relationship Jayne and Paul Smeeton, Chief Operating Executive, Community Services, visited Podiatry to find out just how the equipment was being used and to understand more about how the work carried out by the Procurement team benefits colleagues throughout the Trust.

“We were taken on a tour of the Podiatry Department,” said Jayne, “which gave me a much better understanding of the problems that they have with storage and how important on-time deliveries and quality of goods are to them. “We also observed two operations, which were very interesting, and saw how the equipment was used. “The visit really improved my understanding of how Corporate

Specialist CAMHS well received by local GPs More than 100 delegates from across Newark and Sherwood found out more about child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) at a recent ‘protected learning time’ event. The session in January focused on specialist CAMHS and was attended by GPs, practice managers, practice nurses, health visitors and commissioners. It was organised by Dr Lisa Hirst, Lead GP for Mental Health for the Newark and Sherwood Cluster, to present CAMHS to GPs in the area and introduce the CAMHS team to primary care clinicians. “The event was extremely well attended,” said Dr Hirst. “It has provided a really positive base that we can now build on

Services can help other departments and the impact my own department has on patient care. It was also great to be able to put faces to names of all the people I’ve spoken to in Podiatry.” The Procurement team is keen to strengthen relationships with other departments throughout the Trust and would welcome any other invitations to visit. For more information please contact John Williams, Head of Procurement on 01623 784880 or 01777 247453 or email john.williams@nottshc.nhs.uk.

for future presentations and training. I was very pleased with how well received it was by everyone who attended and with the excellent feedback we received.” Specialist CAMHS and the Newark Emotional Health and Well Being Team gave a joint presentation on referral pathways and mental health provision for children and young people in the Newark and Sherwood area. Specialist CAMHS also had a stall at the event with information about the service and the opportunity for one-to-one discussion with colleagues. Dr Amritash Rai, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Specialist Services Directorate – CAMHS, led the presentation along with Alison Newsham-Kent, Team Leader – Specialist CAMHS, and Rebecca Stevenson, Emotional Health and Wellbeing Team. Dr Rai spoke about the range of services provided by the specialist CAMHS team and provided referral figures and waiting times for Newark and Sherwood. The presentation was very well received and followed by a lively discussion. Feedback on the presentation and stand has been very positive and the Specialist CAMHS team is now lined up to give a presentation on self harm and depression in children and young people at a future event.

Charity offers free help in Nottingham City Disabled people, older people and carers within the Nottingham City area, and healthcare professionals who work with them, can all make use of free services from Disability Direct. The charity covers all types of disability, from learning disability, autism, diseases and illness to mental health problems and physical disability. It offers a welfare rights advice service, help with preparing for benefit appeals and tribunals, and information and advice

about accessing grant funding, finding specific adaptations or other services available. Disability Direct is based at 6 – 7 Church Square, Maxwell Close, Nottingham, NG7 1SL and is open 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday

to Thursday and 9.30am to 4pm Friday. For more information or to book an appointment call 0115 9583948 or email info@ disabilitydirectnottingham. co.uk. The Welfare Rights Advisor and Information Officer will

also be available at the main reception area of the QMC Hospital from 10am to 1pm on Friday 30 March.

Practice learning conference focuses on mentorship

Sarah Froggatt receiving her award from Julian Eve, Head of Learning and Development, Forensic Services

The Learning and Development Department’s inaugural practice learning conference has been hailed a resounding success. The event was hosted by the PreRegistration Professional Development Team, and was opened at the Mike Harris Learning and Development Centre by Janet Sheard, Executive Director Nursing and Allied Health Professionals. It was attended by nursing mentors and managers from

Local and Forensic Services, Offender Health and County Health Partnerships and gave mentors crucial information about the changes being made in the pre-registration practice learning agenda. Guest speakers from within the Trust and Nottingham University spoke about Nursing and Midwifery Council policy and the introduction and impact of both the graduate nurse curriculum and the ‘hub and spoke’ placement pathways which will start in September 2012. Attendees also saw Sarah Froggatt, Staff Nurse, presented with an award

for ‘positive mentorship’ after being nominated by student nurses. Following its initial success, the event will now be held twice a year. The next conference will take place on Thursday 21 June in the Blue Room at Duncan Macmillan House. Nominations for awards for students or placements areas will now be accepted on a rolling basis. To find out more about how to nominate, book a place on the conference or for further information about the hub and spoke learning pathways please contact either shelly. worsley@nottshc.nhs.uk or deb.boyer@ nottshc.nhs.uk.

Janet Sheard opened the event

Positive March 2012

Bassetlaw Health Partnership welcomes Clinical Director A new Clinical Director was welcomed into post with Bassetlaw Health Partnership (BHP) on 1 February. Dr Trez Jordan has been a GP in Bassetlaw since December 1997, based at the Larwood Surgery in Worksop. She has a particular interest in mental health and is currently the mental health clinical lead for NHS Bassetlaw (the Bassetlaw Commissioning Organisation), a role in which she will continue until at least March 2013.

Dr Trez Jordan

“I am delighted to be joining BHP at this exciting time,” said Trez.

“My vision is the provision of high quality, cost effective and locally responsive care, which is accountable and fit for the future; a service in which staff, patients and key stakeholders feel included, supported and valued.” Trez will now lead on the appointment of a General Manager for the locality. Dean Howells, who was the BHP Interim Chief Operating Officer for the transfer period, has now returned to his substantive post as Associate Director of Nursing for the Forensic Division. “We are all very pleased to be welcoming Trez

to the Trust,” said Paul Smeeton, Chief Operating Executive, Community Services. “The insight she brings from her role with NHS Bassetlaw will give her a good overview as we continue to consolidate the pathways encompassing physical and mental health. “I would like to thank Dean Howells for the tremendous job he has done in ensuring a safe transfer of BHP to Nottinghamshire Healthcare and genuine staff engagement in the process, which will contribute hugely to the future success of the Partnership.”

Community services give productivity a boost Teams across County Health Partnerships (CHP) are taking part in the Productive Community Services (PCS) programme to increase efficiency and improve care. Ten multi-disciplinary teams have begun a one-year programme to improve productivity, reduce waste and release time to care at the front line. Staff will learn the tools and techniques and implement local changes which they believe will make a difference to their day-to-day work. Teams will focus first on improving efficiency, understanding their performance, streamlining back office processes and making sure frequently used information and equipment are readily available. They will then look at

team capacity and service demands and work with local partners to streamline communication processes and improve service delivery. Patient and carer engagement staff will make sure that each team considers the perspective of patients and carers throughout. This is the second time that PCS has been run within CHP. Charlotte Wood facilitated the first programme: “When we ran PCS the first time it had a big impact on the way teams organised and managed their store rooms and work areas,” she explained. “Many teams

also identified ways in which they could improve their shift handovers to make them more efficient. “Initial feedback from the teams in this second programme has been extremely positive. They are relishing the opportunity to have greater influence in their working environment and routines.” Before this second PCS programme began, the CHP executive team, general managers, clinical directors and representatives from Bassetlaw took part in a ‘strategic alignment’ session to look

DVD helps spread the word about Asperger Syndrome

The film premiered at the launch event at the Nottingham Contemporary

The PCS facilitators. Left to right: Charlotte Wood (facilitating Newark & Sherwood & Principia), Karen McEwan (facilitating Nottingham North East), Kaye Owen (facilitating Specialist Services), Karen Cusworth (facilitating Mansfield & Ashfield, & Nottingham West).

at how PCS aligns with and can support the organisation’s objectives. “We face a time of major challenge and opportunity over the next few years,” said Paul Smeeton, Chief Operating Executive, Community Services. “Challenge because of the lower rate of growth in NHS funding in the future and an increased requirement for more efficiency; opportunity because there is a national recognition that the best way for the NHS to move forward is to invest more in community services. As public servants we have a duty to ensure we deliver our care in the best way possible and to make sure we are always thinking about how we can improve. Productive Community Services provides us with the tools to be able to do that.” For more information about Productive Community Services contact Charlotte Wood, Productive Community Services Coordinator on 01623 673828 or email charlotte.wood@nottshc-chp.nhs.uk.

A DVD that gives an insight into living with Asperger Syndrome is now available from the Nottingham City Asperger Service. Asperger Syndrome is part of the autism spectrum disorder that affects how an individual interacts, communicates and relates to people and how they experience their environment. The DVD, Being Different: Living Life with Asperger Syndrome, was developed with a group of service users to provide accurate and relevant information about Asperger Syndrome to the wider public.

found the DVD extremely useful. “It was insightful to hear the views of other service users and parents,” she said. “I am so grateful for the help my son and I have received from the service and I feel that the DVD helps to raise awareness of the condition and show Asperger Syndrome in a very positive light.” Each individual with Asperger Syndrome is affected differently, but they share common difficulties with communication and interaction. It may not be immediately obvious to others that an individual has Asperger and in this respect it can be seen as a ‘hidden’ disability.

Nottingham City Asperger Service is part of Nottinghamshire Healthcare and provides diagnostic assessment and support to adults with Asperger Syndrome in the Nottingham City area. The DVD includes questions and answers about issues such as employment, relationships, advantages and social difficulties.

Jacqueline Dziewanowska, Autism Spectrum Disorder Nurse Consultant, said: “The launch was a huge success and we are delighted with the feedback we have received about the DVD. We hope that service users and professionals will find the DVD useful and want to thank the staff and service users who were involved in such a fantastic project.”

One mother, whose son has Asperger, was at the launch event at Nottingham Contemporary and

The DVD is on sale now for £14.99. To obtain a copy please contact the Asperger Service on 0115 8542207.

Positive March 2012

Happy birthday to the CAMHS support group The Thorneywood Community CAMHS support group celebrated its first birthday in January. The group has grown from a dedicated group of six to many more who meet on the second Tuesday of each month. It is open to all users/ carers of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and currently includes young people, parents/carers and grandparents. Siblings are also invited. The first birthday meeting celebrated the achievements of the previous year, from designing leaflets, taking part in interview panels, attending the Trust Involvement Conference, and offering support to other families through a ‘buddying’ system. It also generated ideas such as setting up a CAMHS Human Library.

Some of the CAMHS support group. Seated, left to right: Casey, Chloe, Carl, Alex. Standing, left to right: Louise (behind), Wilma, Bev, Shelby, Caroline, Katie, Jonathon.

At the request of the group, the meetings are themed and have included topics such as self harm, eating disorders and anti-stigma and in future will cover substance misuse. The discussions have been stimulating and an opportunity for shared experiences. Comments from the group include: “The group has built my confidence”; “it is friendly and relaxed”; “you don’t feel pressurised to talk.”

Health Informatics Update: the importance of good record keeping A record is an account of an act, or occurrence, kept in writing or some other permanent format (including electronic format). Records are a valuable resource and the Data Protection Act 1998 defines

Anti stigma is a theme that underpins all meetings and support from the Trust Involvement Centre has been invaluable. Thanks go to all the young people and families who attend the group for making it as it is, and to all the staff who have contributed their time.

the health record as, “consisting of information about the physical or mental health or condition of an identifiable individual made by or on behalf of a health professional in connection with the care of that individual.” Good record keeping is important for individuals, teams, services and the Trust as an organisation. It helps to improve accountability and ensure high quality service delivery by showing how decisions have been made; ensuring continuity of care / good risk management; supporting effective clinical judgements and decisions; promoting better communication and sharing of information with others and enabling complaints and legal processes to be appropriately addressed. Good record keeping also supports the appropriate allocation of resources,

organisational performance planning, clinical audit and research. The main principles of good record keeping are that: • Handwriting is legible • Entries are timed, dated, named, signed with the job title of the author • Entries are timely, in chronological order and recorded as near to the actual time as possible • Entries are relevant, accurate and factual, without unnecessary abbreviations or jargon • All assessments and reviews undertaken are recorded • There is clear evidence of effective care planning • Risks are recorded and action taken in order to deal with them • Concerns regarding capacity and

Degree success Congratulations to Kay Mulcahy, Head of Estates and Facilities (Forensic), who graduated on 13 January with a Masters degree in Public Health (Management and Leadership). Kay studied at the School of Health Related Research (SCHARR) within Sheffield University one day a week for two years. “The Trust has a real drive for learning and development of its staff,” said Kay, “and I feel very privileged to have been supported by Dr Harris and the Trust to complete this course. It was no easy task balancing work, home and study but I got there in the end with the support of colleagues, family and friends. I now intend to implement the knowledge I’ve gained to enhance service provision to patients, carers, staff and visitors of the organisation.”

If you would like more information or have ideas you would like to share, please contact Caroline Prance or Carl Jones at Thorneywood on 0115 8415812.

consent are addressed and recorded • Records are easily accessible to appropriate personnel • Confidentiality and security of the record is maintained If the principles of good record keeping are not followed it can cause risk not only to the patient but in the event of a serious untoward incident, there will be no accurate record of patient care and/or events leading up to the incident. Remember: ‘If it is not written down, it did not happen!’ Further guidance on records management including the NHS Code of Practice for Records Management can be found in the Publications section of the Department of Health website www.dh.gov.uk

Congratulations also to Deborah Godfrey, who has obtained a first class BSc with Honours in Health Care Studies – Long Term Conditions. Deborah combined her studies with her full-time post as Nurse Practitioner at Lings Bar Hospital. Sara Jane Ashmore, Head of Inpatient Nursing Services at Lings Bar Hospital, said: “We are all immensely proud of Deborah’s achievement.” Also celebrating is Keith Bugden, Assistant Practice Manager at HMP Whatton, currently seconded to the role of Training Coordinator for the Offender Health Directorate. Keith successfully achieved a Foundation Degree Arts in Leadership and Management through the University of Northampton. He said: “I would like to thank my colleagues who supported me whilst completing the degree over the last couple of years. Completing it has enabled me take on the secondment role within Offender Health and show what qualities I am able to bring to the Trust.” Well done to Kay, Deborah and Keith. Top: Kay Mulcahy Left: Keith Bugden Right: Deborah Godfrey

Positive March 2012

Nurse specialist leads research into anorexia nervosa A clinical nurse specialist has become one of the first nurses in the Trust to act as principle investigator in a research study. The ECHO (Experienced Carers Helping Others) research trial offers telephone coaching to carers of people suffering from anorexia nervosa. The coaching is delivered by ‘experienced carers’ – those who have been through the journey of recovery with a relative suffering from the eating disorder.

Clinical Studies Officer Rebecca Ellis interviews Lynne Addicott

While traditionally principle investigators of research studies are consultant psychiatrists, Lynne Addicott, a Clinical Nurse Specialist in the Trust’s Adult Eating Disorders Service, has taken on the challenge for ECHO.

“Increasing the amount of research undertaken by this service is definitely a priority for me,” said Lynne. “I know sometimes it’s hard for nurses to take a lead role in research but I think healthcare professionals need to be more active about involving their services in research. It can be difficult to find the time, but when you break it down it isn’t that much. I go into referral meetings with ECHO in mind and then it just becomes part of my job rather than extra work and it’s really pleasurable.” The coaching is supplemented by a book and DVDs coauthored and produced by experienced carers and by Professor Janet Treasure, the UK’s eating disorders expert and the study’s chief investigator. The intervention has already been found to be successful in reducing carers’ distress, but it is hoped that the current study will show further benefits for the sufferer. The trial has a further five months of recruitment still to go. For further information or to refer a family for the ECHO study, please contact Joanne Almeida, Clinical Studies Officer on 0115 8231282 or email joanne.almeida@nottshc. nhs.uk. If you are a clinician thinking of becoming a principle investigator or collaborator on a research study, the MHRN can help you achieve this. Contact kaela.stevenson@ nottshc.nhs.uk for more information.

Step4 psychologists lead by mindful example The Step4 psychology team took a taste of their own medicine during a recent away day.

programme. Their aim is to provide group therapy for people with recurrent depression at the Step4 service, in addition to the range of therapies being offered to those with complex and longstanding mental health and relationship difficulties.

The team, based at Kirkby-inAshfield, made good use of an opportunity for a reflective day away and practised their own mindfulness. The nine psychologists worked together in the morning to make a team meal of Spanish tapas and then enjoyed sharing lunch together. The afternoon was spent considering current service changes using, as a parallel to advice given to clients, reflective silence and mindful resting. Even those more uncertain about the power of mindfulness had to admit the value of the practice on the day and its ongoing

Approaches already available at Step4 include cognitive analytic therapy, eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing, cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic therapy. value on returning to work the next day. Mindfulness is increasingly being used within mental health care as learning to be more aware can improve wellbeing in all areas of life

by helping people to tune into their own feelings. Two members of the Step4 Psychology team, Lisa Goodman and Sarah McDonald, are currently taking part in the mindfulness-based cognitive therapy training

To find out more about mindfulness or the Step4 service contact Alison Smith on 01623 785444. l-r: Alison Smith, Kathy Huke, Rachel Sabin-Farrell and Rob McFarland from the Step4 Psychology Service with their home-made tapas lunch.

Bassetlaw focus on teenagers’ needs In January Bassetlaw Health Partnerships held its first multi-agency development day focusing on the needs of teenagers. The day was aimed at practitioners and designed to enhance their knowledge, skills and competencies in caring for teenagers. 96 practitioners attended with two thirds from health (including primary care and acute services) and one third from multi-agency services including education, children’s social care, Sure Start children centres, Women’s Aid and drugs and alcohol services. The event was put together after a need was identified by health staff through supervision and appraisals and from local and national emerging agendas affecting teenagers, such as child sexual exploitation. The agenda covered a number of core topics and included a keynote session delivered by teenagers from Retford Post 16 Centre. The group spoke about how it feels to be a teenager in Bassetlaw today, about accessing health services and trying to achieve their aspirations in the current economic climate. Other interactive workshops, presentations and case studies covered child health and child sexual exploitation, neglect and neurological, psychological and sexual development of teenagers, addressing each from a multi-agency perspective. The event evaluated extremely positively with participants specifically noting child exploitation, working on case studies, sexual development and listening to the teenagers’ presentation as highlights. The interest was such that the organisers plan to deliver a specific teenage development session in 2012/13. More information will be sent out nearer the time. Some of the Retford teenagers who delivered a keynote session about being a teenager today.

Community nursing placements a success Community nursing teams in County Health Partnerships have been receiving great feedback relating to student nursing placements. The Community Nursing Team at Eastwood has received excellent feedback from four nursing students who evaluated their placements via the University of Nottingham, School of Nursing. All of them expressed that they were made to feel welcome and part of the team. Comments included:

“My mentors were really good at giving me feed back and showing me areas to develop. It was done in a nice way and really helped me build my confidence.” “The team was fantastic and really supported me. They let me take every opportunity available and encouraged me to do a wide range of procedures.” Alison Rounce, Primary Care Lead for Nottingham West said, “We are now looking to incorporate multi-disciplinary learning into this framework with our GP registrars being invited to the community events. It is the beginning of an integrated approach to education and training.” When asked about what could be improved, the response was: “If anything could be improved it would be the amount of time we actually spend in the community.” Claire Towne, Head of Adult Services in Nottingham West said, “Well done to the team. Celebrate your achievements in keeping the profile of community nursing high and sending the positive messages to students. You are clearly true ambassadors.” Nicki Miller is a student nurse in Hucknall and has just completed a placement with the health visiting team at Hucknall Health Centre. She said: “I had a fantastic time and they made me feel like a valuable part of the team. They were so helpful and encouraging, answered any questions that I had and just made it a great and an enjoyable placement to attend. “It can sometimes be quite difficult being the new girl and they took any anxiety and stress away. Many thanks to the team, I really enjoyed their company and would love to work with them again.”

Positive March 2012

Left to right: Kelly Young, Calverton Children’s Centre; Gayle Parr, Arnbrook Children’s Centre; Karen Jackson, Stanhope Children’s Centre.

Sure Start:

Positive about volunteering A volunteer from Gedling Sure Start Children’s Centre has been awarded ‘Volunteer of the Year’. The Gedling CVS Pam Clipsham Community Awards recognised volunteers in Gedling Borough for their contribution to the community. Gayle Parr, from Arnbrook Children’s Centre, was rewarded for dedicating time and commitment to families within the Arnbrook Sure Start Centre and to community events. There are eight Children’s Centres in the Gedling Sure Start District serving nearly 6,000 children under five. The centres are run by County Health Partnerships with community development workers provided by Gedling Community and Voluntary Services and volunteers involved in a number of ways. “Volunteering in the Children’s Centre has increased my confidence and life skills, which has enriched my family,” said Gayle. “The award makes me feel the work I have done is valued. I couldn’t have done it without the support I received from the staff.” Two other volunteers were also nominated: Kelly Young from Calverton Children’s Centre, and Karen Jackson from Stanhope Children’s Centre. Gayle also received a second Children’s Centre Volunteer award.

The children’s centres bring together different support agencies to offer a range of services to meet the needs of children under five years of age and their families. Gedling has the highest number of volunteers of any Children’s Centre district in Nottinghamshire. Volunteers commenting on their experience have said: “Volunteering has opened up my career prospects and given me a chance to broaden my horizons. It gives me conversation at home.” “My volunteering jump-started my life in the UK. It gave me the confidence to apply for jobs and improved my relationship with my husband.” “Volunteering has helped me meet new people in new environments. It’s built my confidence, given me new skills and given me hope about returning to work.” To find out more about volunteering at a children’s centre near you contact Denis Tully, Community Engagement Coordinator, County Health Partnerships on 0115 8830812 or email denis.tully@nottshc-chp.nhs.uk.

CHP scoops apprenticeship award County Health Partnerships is celebrating after winning an award in recognition of its work with apprentices. In January the Nottinghamshire Training Network Awards took place at the East Midlands Conference Centre and the Community Services Division won through to the final stages for the Employer of the Year award. Sue Stronach and Heather Porter, Trust Leads for Apprenticeships, attended the event along with an apprentice, Samantha Colclough, and were delighted to come away with the runner-up award. “It is a real privilege to receive an award and recognition for all the hard work we have put in to the apprenticeship programme,” said Sue. “We are always looking at ways of improving the experience for the young people and work actively to ensure they gain a variety of skills and experiences in the workplace.”

The Trust currently employs over 30 apprentices across a number of sites and services. They are working towards a range of frameworks including business administration, health and social care and hospitality. During National Apprenticeship Week in February the latest cohort of apprentices attended the Trust induction and a number of apprentices’ success stories were promoted. Paul O’Neill, Associate Director of Learning and Development, said: “We want to ensure that young people are equipped with the necessary skills and

knowledge to support their own career goals and give us a well trained future workforce. Working for a large recognised employer enables the apprentices to gain a variety of work experience and mix with many different health care professionals.” Apprentices are recruited twice a year. On Tuesday 3 April, Sue Stronach and Heather Porter, Trust Apprenticeship Leads will be holding information sessions for any managers interested in offering apprentice placements within their teams. There will be two sessions, one in the North at Hawthorn House from 9.30am to 11.30am in Meeting Room 1 and one in the South at Duncan Macmillan House from 2.00pm to 4.00pm in Training Room 4. Contact Sue on 01623 673588 or susan.stronach@nottshc-chp. nhs.uk or Heather on 0115 9691300 ext 11269 or heather. porter@nottshc.nhs.uk for more information. Top: Sue Stronach with County Health Partnerships’ runner-up award for employer of the year. Left: The latest cohort of Apprentices at Trust induction during National Apprenticeship Week

Positive March 2012

Showcasing improvements in older people’s care Mental Health Services for Older People took time out in January to showcase the good work being carried out in the Directorate. In January the team held an event to celebrate and exhibit its achievements and provide an opportunity for service users, carers, staff and commissioners to look at best practice and find out what is being done to improve patient care. Throughout 2011 a number of reports, documentaries and discussions were produced which highlighted poor care being given to the elderly in hospitals and care homes. The lack of dignity and respect shown to this vulnerable group has challenged everyone involved in this area of healthcare. The event aimed to show the positive side of MHSOP. There were 16 stalls, with contributions from areas such as B47 at the QMC (the medical ward for patients with dementia/delirium), Involvement,

Allied Health Professionals, Dementia Outreach, activity co-ordinators and Age Concern.

Activity coordinators use Punch and Judy to promote handwashing. Left to right: Mike Cooke, Chief Jane Smith, Activity Coordinator and Jayne Green, Healthcare Assistant as Punch and Judy; Jane Kirk, Activity Coordinator.

General Manager Andrea Ward welcomed everyone to the event and made introductions before Mike Cooke, Chief Executive, gave an opening address. Dean Fathers, Trust Chair, and Simon Smith, Executive Director for Local Services, also leant their support.

the challenge to ensure that good work is consistent across the directorate. Listening to what patients and staff want and getting the basics right are just the start.

Mike Cooke talked about the five reports published about the poor care delivered to elderly patients and the impact that these have had, setting

Sharon Howe, Modern Matron, MHSOP, said: “It was great to see all the excitement and energy from staff showcasing their area of expertise and from the visitors who came along to the event; it was a really positive day.”

Educating young minds Last month young people from North Notts College, Post 16 Centre Retford and The Dukeries College visited The Mike Harris Learning and Development Centre at Rampton Hospital for an afternoon of mental health awareness and anti stigma activities. The students had the chance to debate issues, discuss how the media portrays mental health and talk to someone with first-hand experience of life within the Hospital. Sophie Parry a student from North Notts College said “I think the day was very educational and it was interesting to learn about

The day opened up much discussion

q&a

q What is your favourite hobby? a Reading, swimming, opera and

ballet first among equals.

q What keeps you awake at night? a Chewing over ideas. q What is your favourite film? a Les Enfants du Paradis – Children

This month we speak to Professor Patrick Callaghan, Mental Health Nursing

of Paradise.

q What is your job title and what does your role entail? a Professor, Mental Health Nursing.

q What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given? a Live well!

q How long have you been with Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust? a My association began in January 2006 with my appointment to the University of Nottingham.

q What was the last CD you bought? a I’m a downloader now and the last

q What three words would you use to describe yourself? a Thoughtful, impatient and gregarious.

q What do you see as your priorities

for Nottinghamshire Healthcare? a To advise and assist the Trust in its operational objectives in general and to advise on nursing and allied health professional research and practice development.

q What is your employment background? a Registered Nurse and Registered Practitioner Psychologist. I have worked in clinical practice, research, teaching and management in the NHS and Universities in the UK and overseas in the last 30 years.

q What is your idea of bliss? a Swimming in an open expanse of

water completely undisturbed with the colour blue above and below me.

album I downloaded was Kate Bush: 50 Words for Snow.

q What is your greatest achievement? a The love and affection of my partner,

friends and family.

q What makes you angry? a Tyranny in all its forms. q What are you most passionate about? a Living well. q What single thing would improve your working life at Nottinghamshire Healthcare? a Working smarter with a little bit more consistency.

q What is your favourite holiday destination? a Cuba is the most interesting place I have visited; Paris is my mistress. q Who would you take to a desert island? a People who nourish me. q Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time? a Older, wiser and living well. q Do you have a ‘claim to fame’? a I once did a pirouette on stage at

the State Opera House in Vienna.

q How would you like to be remembered? a To be remembered will suffice.

mental illness. I expected the hospital to be like a prison, especially when I arrived and saw the high fences, but I now know it is a hospital not a prison.” The young people were given a unique opportunity to meet an expatient, hear his story and ask questions. “By visiting Rampton Hospital I have gained greater knowledge of mental health and the associated stigma, the most interesting objective of the event was the talk from a former patient who spoke truthfully about the help he received from all of the services provided” said Samantha Wright, also a student at North Notts. The day was one of the special events being held in 2012 to mark the Hospital’s centenary year. It was a partnership effort, with the Involvement Team, EIP, Learning and Development and Communications teams pulling together to make a very memorable day. The day was a huge success and thanks go to the staff at the Mike Harris Centre for all their support.

Positive March 2012

HR looking forward Human Resources (HR) teams from each of the Trust’s Divisions came together in January for time out, to meet colleagues and discuss future short, medium and long term objectives. The day was developed and led by Jenna Stokes, Trainee HR Advisor Local Services. This was a huge effort from Jenna and a leap out of her comfort zone, but a great opportunity to develop and assist her with her Masters Degree in HR Management. The key theme for the day was recognising that HR services need aligning and how to improve customer service. Mike Cooke, Chief Executive, Simon Smith, Executive Director Local Services, and Peter Hunt, General Manager, Community Health Partnerships came along to share some of their challenges and how to make positive contributions to the workforce. They gave a clear steer that attendance at work needs managing and how to support managers and employees to ensure this can be achieved. Everyone appreciated hearing first hand what their expectations are and how to move forward. The HR Function acknowledges that some teams do need to work differently to cater for each Division’s needs, but also acknowledge that sharing best practice and becoming more aligned is something that is needed. The day was a great success with a good atmosphere throughout and many successes over the last 12 months were celebrated including the smooth ESR payroll transfer of our CHP Employees led by Cath Cowley in the Corporate Division and the successful Investigation Training which Charlotte Whyman from Local Services put together alongside Michelle Persaud and Staff Side colleagues. A special thanks to all those that joined in and contributed on the day; Mike Cooke, Simon Smith, Peter Hunt, Judith Hodge and Sue Dudley from Staff Counselling, Rachael Barrett and Heather Downey from Fit for Work Service and Julie Clough from Occupational Health.

Jenna Stokes

HR now has some challenging and exciting times ahead and colleagues are looking forward to setting some clear objectives which will benefit and support all employees in the Trust.

WHO WE ARE...

You may have picked up this copy of the newsletter not knowing what Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust is. We provide integrated healthcare services including mental health, learning disability and community health services. We also manage medium-secure units in Leicester and Rotherham, and the highsecure Rampton Hospital near Retford and provide healthcare in 12 prisons across the East Midlands and Yorkshire.

WE NEED YOU!

If you have any ideas or suggestions for the newsletter, please contact Suzanne Aitken in the Trust Communications Team on 0115 955 5403 or via email at suzanne.aitken@nottshc.nhs.uk. We are always pleased to receive articles for possible publication, but ask that they do not exceed 300 words. Wherever possible when naming individuals, please include details of their job titles/roles and the organisation they are from. If any individuals other than yourself are mentioned in what you write or featured in accompanying photographs, please make sure you check with them that they are happy to be potentially featured. It is your responsibility to ensure this consent is given. Please send photos as separate image files and not in Word documents. Please note that the Communications Team has full editorial control and may have to edit articles appropriately. Therefore, if you want to see the final version please ensure you send your article in with plenty of time before the deadline and state clearly what you require. If you would like copies of any past editions of Positive, or if you are having any ‘distribution issues’ with the newsletter – whether you’re receiving too many copies, too few, or none at all – then please contact us. If you would like your story in the May issue of Positive, please contact us by 5 April 2012. However, due to space constraints we cannot guarantee the publication of all articles received by the deadline. Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, The Resource, Duncan Macmillan House, Porchester Road, Nottingham, NG3 6AA tel 0115 9691300 www.nottinghamshirehealthcare.nhs.uk

Printed on Cocoon · 100% recycled paper